The evolution of the GM

Andrew Johnston

Sentosa Golf Club

Andrew Johnston, General Manager, Director of Agronomy & Resident Golf Course Architect at Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore reflects on how the role of the GM has changed over the course of his career

When I first stepped into a general manager’s role, the focus was very different. It was about keeping the course in shape, balancing the budget and making sure operations ran smoothly behind the scenes. Today, that’s only the foundation.

At Sentosa Golf Club, my role has evolved into something much broader: leading a globally recognised venue, driving sustainability innovation, hosting some of the biggest tournaments in the world and creating an environment where both members and guests experience something truly world class. I balance the day-to-day role of a GM with also being Director of Agronomy and Resident Golf Designer; roles that allow me to shape the playing experience, protect the environment and ensure Sentosa continues to set new standards in world golf.

More than a golf club

Sentosa is not just another golf facility. Over the years, we’ve been proud to consistently receive awards recognising us as one of the world’s most sustainable sporting venues. That recognition comes from a relentless commitment to reducing water and energy usage, protecting local wildlife habitats and pioneering environmental initiatives that set benchmarks for others to follow.

For me as a GM, this means I’m not just managing a club, I’m shaping a culture of responsibility that inspires staff, members, and visitors alike. Sustainability is not a marketing message at Sentosa, it is ingrained into how we operate and how we see the future of the game.

Hosting the world

Another dimension of the modern GM role is event leadership. Sentosa has the privilege of staging some of the most prestigious tournaments in golf, from the HSBC Women’s World Championship, often dubbed ‘Asia’s Major’, to LIV Golf events that bring a new dimension of global attention and a different energy to the game.

These tournaments demand precision and vision. We must deliver experiences that match the standards of the world’s best players and showcase Singapore on the global sporting stage. As GM, I work closely with governing bodies, sponsors, broadcasters and our own teams to ensure that everything from the condition of the course to the hospitality experience reflects excellence.

This type of event hosting has redefined the role of the GM. It’s no longer just inward-facing, it’s about positioning your venue, your city, and even your country on a global platform.

Building people and culture

Even with awards and tournaments, I firmly believe the true heartbeat of Sentosa is our people. One of my key responsibilities is developing our staff so that they feel empowered, engaged and proud to deliver world-class service.

The modern GM can’t succeed without a motivated and educated team. For us, this means constant training, recognition and providing opportunities to grow. Hosting global events pushes us to new levels, and our staff rise to that challenge. That, more than anything, gives me confidence in the future.

Technology and Benchmarking 

Clubs like Sentosa can’t stand still. Technology and benchmarking have become essential tools in my role. We use systems to measure performance, understand guest satisfaction and compare ourselves with leading clubs worldwide.

Working with partners like 59club ensures we remain accountable, learning from data and using insights to refine our standards year after year. This approach has helped us not only maintain our reputation but continually raise expectations of what a club can deliver.

A global perspective 

Managing Sentosa means thinking globally. Our members, guests and event partners compare us with premium, trailblazing venues such as St Andrews, Pebble Beach and TPC Sawgrass. That means I must always adopt a global outlook, looking at best practice internationally and making sure we innovate to stay ahead.

The evolution of the GM role is about exactly this: being outward- looking, visionary and prepared to set the agenda rather than just follow it.

If I could change one thing…

From my perspective, if our industry could do one thing better, it would be to invest more in developing people. Technology, sustainability and tournaments matter, but without passionate, skilled teams, you can’t deliver excellence. The clubs that thrive in the future will be those that prioritize their people.

Conclusion

The role of the GM has changed enormously in my career. At Sentosa, I’ve seen first-hand how success is defined not just by course condition or financial stability, but by sustainability leadership, global recognition, event delivery and above all, culture. That’s the new reality of being a general manager.

Key takeaway

The GM role has evolved into a position of leadership, innovation and global responsibility. At Sentosa, sustainability, award winning performance and hosting world-class tournaments have redefined expectations. But the ultimate key is people: developing staff and empowering teams to deliver exceptional experiences that resonate far beyond the course. 

About Andy

Role: General Manager, Director of Agronomy & Resident Golf Course Architect, Sentosa Golf Club

Andy has over 25 years of golf management, agronomy and course design experience, leading Sentosa to global recognition for sustainability, service and world-class tournament hosting.